5 Effective Methods to Remove Rust From Metal

Rust is a form of iron oxide that forms in the presence of water or air humidity. Any iron-made object will be completely covered with rust and will disintegrate if exposed to prolonged humidity. Rust is the common term for iron and iron alloys (such as steel) corrosion.

Here are the most effective methods to remove rust from metal:

Vinegar

Acids, especially citric acid or acetic acid, are very good rust removals, especially for parts that can be dismantled easily and immersed in the solution. If you want to remove rust from screws, just soak them in vinegar.
Take a plastic container and pour enough vinegar to cover the parts you want to clean. Parts must be completely immersed in vinegar. It is said that apple cider vinegar is the best rust removing agent. For best effects, you must keep the parts immersed in vinegar for 24 hours.

Salt and lemon

Before rushing to the store, try to use two common ingredients you already have at home: salt and lemon.
Rub the entire rusty area with salt and then squeeze the lemon juice over salt. Squeeze as much juice and leave it on for three or four hours. After, just rub the surface with an abrasive sponge.
To avoid damaging the metal, we recommended rubbing the surface with a lemon peel soaked in lemon juice and salt.

Baking soda

Pour baking soda in a bowl and add enough water until you make a paste. The paste should be sufficiently thick, but not crumbly. Apply the paste to the rusty area and leave it on a few hours. Rub the surface with a toothbrush and you will soon notice that your object will regain its original glow.

Potatoes and soap

Cut a potato in half. Rub the inside of potato with soap (liquid or solid). Rub the potato half (which is covered in soap) over the rusty are and let it act a few hours. After, clean the surface with a toothbrush.

Scrubbing

If all of the above methods have failed, you can try scrubbing. Scrubbing is easy to perform when rust covers a large and accessible area. Depending on the severity of the problem, you can use a paint scraper or a screwdriver (in the worst-case scenario). You can use steel wool or sandpaper, but you must be careful not to damage the metal.